PETA’s get-well note to plague victim urges: Stop hunting

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals said Friday it is sending a “care package” to the Crook County teen hospitalized after contracting the bubonic plague on a hunting trip — with a not-so-subtle request that she give up hunting.

“Along with get-well gifts — including vegan snacks and plush socks — PETA will enclose a letter urging her to consider the suffering endured by hunted animals (as well as their grieving families) and to make the compassionate choice never to hunt again,” the news release said.

“After this young woman recovers from her ordeal, the lives of other beings who are capable of feeling every bit as much pain will be in her hands, and we’re asking her no longer to have them in her sights,” said PETA President Ingrid Newkirk.

“Hunting hurts not only those animals who are shot but also their mates and families, who suffer and grieve when a family member is injured or killed. PETA hopes this young woman will reflect on her experience and never intentionally inflict pain on animals again.”

PETA’s letter to the teen follows.

To the young woman recovering from bubonic plague,

I’m writing on behalf of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and our more than 3 million members and supporters, including thousands across Oregon. Please accept this care package filled with vegan items, which we hope you’ll enjoy when you’re able. We’d also like to send our deepest wishes that you make a speedy, full recovery. Many of us have teenagers in our own families and would absolutely hate for this to happen to any of them, so we’re really rooting for you.

This terrifying ordeal may have a lifelong impact on how you see the world. As you’re striving to overcome this disease, we wonder if you might also consider permanently laying down your weapons and vowing never to attempt to harm and kill another living being again.

Hunted animals feel pain and suffer in the same ways that you and I do, and their sisters, brothers, mothers, and friends grieve their loss, much like your family must have feared losing you. As you probably realize, many animals are shot and injured but not killed outright, and many endure prolonged, painful deaths from infection, blood loss, or starvation.

We hope some good will come out of your ordeal and that you’ll decide to choose to enjoy nature in nonviolent ways. Thank you for thinking about this important issue, and again, we wish you all the best during your recovery.

Very truly yours,

Ingrid E. Newkirk

President